Embedded Software Co-op Fall 2026

Specter Aerospace • Peabody, MA

1d

About The Position

Specter Aerospace is seeking an Embedded Software Co-op (4-6+ month cycle) to be a primary contributor to the development of various portions of the avionics software stack. This position will be a primary contributor to critical flight software that is required for the delivery of a complete hypersonic flight vehicle. You will be a part of a rapidly growing team and will have the opportunity to experience many different elements of avionics systems.
About Specter Aerospace:
Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for defense and commercial applications. Specter is headquartered in Peabody, MA, just north of Boston, where it leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations, commercial customers, and private funding, Specter is a growing aerospace and defense startup. Close relationships with MIT, Notre Dame, AFRL, NRL, ANL, and other research organizations provide access to cutting-edge developments, facilities, and personnel. Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.

Requirements

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering
• Previous experience with fundamental coding principles in one or more languages
• Direct experience with embedded languages such as C/C++ deployed on ARM-based embedded microcontrollers
• Previous experience applying software development skills in a lab or student organization
• Comfort with project autonomy and self-management amidst changing requirements
• Strong collaborative skills and a drive to produce quality work
• Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)

Nice To Haves

• Previous professional OR student team leadership experience relevant to the requirements for this position
• Familiarity with developing and implementing real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Experience with deploying embedded software to multi-core systems
• Knowledge of data scripting languages such as MATLAB or Python
• Experience with implementing FPGAs within a larger computational system
• Previous experience with lab equipment, such as function generators, power supplies and oscilloscopes

Responsibilities

• Work in a rapidly growing startup company developing avionics systems for vehicles using advanced propulsion systems
• Develop and test software for controllers within a hypersonic flight vehicle avionic system
• Take ownership of software development and integration for critical systems throughout the vehicle and related ground-support systems
• Interface with electrical, GNC, and test engineering teams to refine requirements, define technical scope, and ensure complete system functionality
• Establish testing protocols to conduct shakedowns, debug, and validate software development
• Participate in technical meetings, engage in technical discussions, and contribute perspectives

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern